The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, has called for a major reform in Nigeria’s judicial training framework, urging the transformation of the National Judicial Institute (NJI) into a full-fledged university.
She made the appeal on Friday in Abuja during a special court session held as part of activities marking the Court of Appeal’s Golden Jubilee and the valedictory session for retiring Justice Hamma Akawu Barka.
Justice Dongban-Mensem said the proposed upgrade would create a structured system to harness the vast knowledge and experience of retired judicial officers, many of whom leave the bench at the mandatory retirement age while still intellectually active.
According to her, a judicial university would serve as a hub for advanced legal research, mentorship, and training, allowing seasoned jurists to contribute meaningfully to the development of the judiciary.
“Many of our retired colleagues still possess immense intellectual value that should not be lost. A university framework will provide an avenue for them to shape the next generation of legal minds,” she noted.
She emphasized that the exit of experienced judges like Justice Barka underscores the urgency of preserving institutional knowledge within the judiciary.
Justice Barka, the Presiding Justice of the Abuja Division, is set to retire on April 17, 2026, upon attaining the age of 70. Praising his distinguished 40-year career, Dongban-Mensem described him as “a gentleman of the highest order” who served diligently across multiple divisions, including Benin, Ilorin, Akure, and Calabar.
The Appeal Court President also highlighted recent efforts by the court to address its growing caseload. As part of its 50th-anniversary initiatives, the court constituted 21 special panels made up of 63 justices, which collectively heard 330 appeals covering civil, criminal, and commercial matters.
The special sittings were conducted at the Court of Appeal Headquarters, the Abuja Division, and other courtrooms provided by the Federal Capital Territory judiciary.
Dongban-Mensem expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their support, noting that collaboration was crucial in overcoming existing infrastructure and logistical challenges.
In his remarks, Justice Barka thanked his colleagues and members of the legal community for their support throughout his career. He assured that although he is retiring from the bench, he remains committed to the legal profession and will continue to offer his expertise whenever called upon.
The call to transform the NJI into a judicial university is expected to spark conversations within legal and policy circles, as stakeholders consider new ways to strengthen Nigeria’s justice system.